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i UNITED STATICS OF AMERICA. J 



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KM^^I 



DEI.ITERED BEFOHE THE 



gSilatielpl^ia Mtittp for promotmg ^gticultutt, 



AT ITS ANNUAL MEETING, 



TWENTY-THIRD OF JANUARY, 1823, 






ITS PRESIDEXT, 



AT THE REQUEST OF THE SOCIETY. 



phinted bt onDETi of the societt. 



•^ 



PHILADELPHIA: 

Clark & Raser, Printers, 33 Carter's Alley. 
1853. 



Extract from the Minutes of the Agricultural Society, 
January 2\y 1823. 

" Resolved, That the thanks of the Society be 
presented to the President, and that he be re- 
quested to furnish a copy of his Oration for 
pubUcation." 

ROBERTS VAUX, Secretary. 



,^3® ]©3KS S 



GENTLEMEN OF THE SOCIETY,— 

It is not with any conviction of my capacity to throw on 
the subject of our institution any new lights, or to bring for- 
ward any new incitements to our zeal, that I have, from ne- 
cessity, consented to pronounce a plain and narrative, and, I 
fear, desultory address on this thirty-eighth annual return 
of the season in which our Society commenced its disinterest- 
ed and useful labours. It was formed in 1785, by a number 
of the most respectable citizens, whose views were not biassed 
by any selfish motives; for few of them had any direct inte- 
rest in the subject. Their objects were purely patriotic ; and 
calculated to serve the interests of Husbandmen ; without 
any prospects of emolument or even fame accruing to them- 
selves. They perceived, with regret, that no such associations 
existed in any other part of our country; or, if in existence, 
no publicity was given to their proceedings. Sensible of the 
necessity of encouraging and informing the practisers of the 
art on whi^h the prosperity of our country mainly depends, 
they spared neither necessary expense, nor zealous endea- 
vours, to accomplish their ends. Their task was difficult; for 
their influence, among practical farmers, was neutralized by 
almost unconquerable prejudices. Few believed that those 
who did not follow the plough, could possibly advise or direct 
the tillers of the soil. They persevered with unremitting en- 



4- 

deavours, till many among the intelligent farmers, not only in 
our own, but in other States, were convinced of, and assisted, 
their usefulness. I reverence their memory, having well 
known their pure and patriotic excitements to well doing. I 
was, then, one of the few practical farmers among them. I 
profited by the instructive lessons promulgated by this infant 
association; and gratefully returned my obligations in every 
way my capacity and power enabled me. Being almost the 
only survivor of those who first formed our Society ; I think 
myself bound to pay my thankful tribute to the memory of 
my departed coadjutors and friends. To them and their suc- 
cessors, our country is indebted, for at least the rudiments of 
the agricultural zeal and intelligence which now so happily, 
and so generally, pervade our Union. And if, by the pro- 
gress of improvement, and the increase of means — favoured 
by more enlightened views of the subject, among those 
whose prosperity was the object of their aim — their early 
endeavour? have been outdone; their merit is not the less 
praiseworthy. The seed, then sown with more zeal than 
hope, has fallen in a fertile soil, and the harvest is abundant. 
Part of their original design, was to promote the formation of 
societies similar to their own. Long indeed was the accom- 
plishment of this most desirable object delayed; but I have 
lived to see, by a kind of spontaneous and general conviction, 
such associations widely spread throughout our country. And 
if, with more means, but not with more zeal, some of them 
have given more brilliant and repeated instances of active ex- 
ertions, than our limited resources have enabled us to exhibit; 
it afibrds to mc the most pure and unalloyed delight. Through 
a gloomy period of apathy — among our rural fellow citizens 
particularly — we kept alive the fire on the altar of our devo- 
tion to the great and leading interest of our country. Many 



have lit their torches at our constant, if not always lambent, 
flame: and the brighter they burn, the more they contribute 
to our most sincere satisfaction — solid, not boastful ; admiring, 
not invidious. 

It was the earnest wish of our Society, that our State should 
set the example of providing not only for the practical, but 
the scientific, instruction of our farmers. So long ago as the 
year 1794, a plan was drawn up by myself, and approved by 
my able and highly respectable coadjutors, " For establishing 
a State Society of Agriculture ;^^ wherein will be found 
every facility for promoting agricultural knowledge, scientific 
as well as practical. Among such facilities was that of con- 
necting the education of youth with the instruction afforded 
to those in advanced life; and thus grounding the rising ge- 
neration in the knowledge of the most important of all arts, 
while they are acquiring other useful knowledge suitable for 
the agricultural citizens of the state. This plan was laid be- 
fore our then Legislature. Every endeavour was used for its 
adoption: but that Legislature, nor their successors — with 
whom I faithfully laboured, when one of them — could be pre- 
vailed on to give their sanction to an arrangement so highly 
important. This plan will be seen in our first volume of Me- 
moirs. It was printed in a small pamphlet and the papers of 
the day; and had it not been recorded in our volume, would 
have been lost and forgotten. I know this to have been the 
fate of a riiultitude of the early literary and practical, and 
many of them very able, productions of our Society, and its 
members ; which were intrusted to the ephemeral and fugi- 
tive promulgations of newspapers. This misfortune induced 
us to collect in volumes, o?rr papers; which are in general 
circulation and good repute. They nevertheless did great 
service, and assisted in laying a foundation on which the pre- 



6 

went superstructure is built. Although our Societ}'- would 
have been merged in a plan so general and superior, we were 
content to become humble partakers in its provisions ; never 
having aimed at taking the lead; but always ready to aid in 
any plan for promoting the agricultural and fundamental pros- 
perity of our rural fellow citizens. 

It is not to be wondered at, however deeply it is to be re- 
gretted, that our State legislators were thus blind to the in- 
terests and comforts of their constituents, when it is recol- 
lected that our great and wise Agriculturist, as well as 
Statesman, — the immortal Washington, — failed in his en- 
deavours to prevail on our national Legislature, to establish a 
natipnal professorship of Agriculture. This would have spread, 
universally, a conviction that Science is the handmaid, most 
essentially administering instruction to the art, which, al- 
though the most ancient of all others, remains to this day 
imperfect; and too much dependant on practical facts, and the 
honest but often mistaken pride of individual performances ; — 
too frequently discordant, and destitute of leading principles 
to guide in practical results. It is devoutly to be wished, that 
our, Legislature would assist in the means of endowing a pro- 
fessorship, in the most important of all subjects on which 
science can be employed. — Important indeed : — for it is the 
source from which flows the subsistence of all other artists, 
and the origin of the most necessary materials of the useful 
arts. 

I had expectations that some member of our Society, qua- 
lified for the task, would, at this anniversary, have shown the 
connexion between Science and Jlgriculture. I have been 
compelled to substitute mere general observations, for con- 
vincing and irrefragable proofe ; which I know could be por- 
^iraiyed by an able and scientific advocate. I would zealous! v 



join in oflering a premium for the best essay on this subject; 
to induce a dissertation honourable to the writer, and incal- 
culably advantageous to our country. No one is more firmly 
convinced of the all essential benefits and exemplary advan- 
tages of well directed practice; without which all scientific 
inquiries, and lessons, would be vain indeed. But modern 
discoveries in many branches of science, have been most un- 
deniably instructive in Agriculture. Many of the most use- 
ful arts would linger or perish, without scientific auxiliaries. 
The sister profession and art of Commerce and Navigation, 
would shrink into its ancient barbarism, ignorance, and nar- 
row boundaries, had not science directed navigators in tra- 
versing the most distant seas, and exploiting unknown re- 
gions ; to and from which Commerce now wafts her treasures, 
and approximates the most locally remote quarters of our 
globe. Let then Science, so pre-eminently conspicuous in 
the adventurous pursuits on the Ocean, illumine and instruct 
the cultivators of the Land; without whom Coin^nerce would 
abortively spread her sails, and vainly dare the perils and un- 
ceasing vicissitudes of the seas. I have been led to enlarge 
on this subject; not only from an early wish to promote a 
proper attention to it; but at the request of my old revolu- 
tionary friend, Mr. Madison, who transmitted, as President 
of the Albemarle Agricultural Society of Virginia, a number 
of resolutions of that Society, for obtaining an Agricultural 
Professorship, to be engrafted on their plan of the Virginia 
University; and requesting the co-operation of Societies in 
other States, to render such professorships popular. I have 
not the presumption to suppose that my individual endeavours 
would accomplish the object; but my relation to the Society 
gives me the opportunity to recommend it to their favourable 
notice. 



8 

To show that my merited eulogies on the early endeavours 
of our Society, are not without indubitable evidence of their 
truth and justice; I will, as shortly as possible, enumerate the 
various subjects on which they offered tempting premiums, 
to be given out of their ])rivate resources : many of them far 
greater, in pecuniary value, than those now usually tendered. 
Their plan, in this regard, will be seen by reference to our 
volumes : although intrinsically valuable, our design was to 
bestow honourable badges of distinction, in gold and silver 
medals, and useful articles, in preference to pecuniary re- 
wards. Honourable emulation despises sordid gratifications. 
And yet I censure not those whose circumstances in life re- 
quire pecuniary emolument. To all, I would give the option. 

1st. For the best rotation of crops, a five years course — a 
piece of plate of the value of '200 dollars; and for the next 
best course, a piece of plate valued at 100 dollars. 

2d. For a complete fold-yard, and the best method of con- 
ducting it — a silver medal. 

3d. For the best method oi raising and feeding siuine — 
a gold medal ; and for the second best, one of silver. 

4th. For the best method of recovering worn-out fields to 
a more hearty state, within the power of common farmers, 
without dear or far-fetched manures, but by judicious culture, 
— a gold medal ; and for the second best, one of silver. 

5th. For the best methods of preventing damage to crops 
by insects, especially the Hessian fly, and other enumerated 
destroyers — a gold medal ; and one of silver for the second 
best. 

6th. For the best comparative, experiments on the various 
anodes of sowing wheat — a gold medal for the best, and a 
silver one for the next best. 

7th. For an account of a vegetable spring food, that best 



9 

increases milk in cows and ewes — a gold medal for the best, 
and a silver one for the second best. 

8th. A sold and silver medal for the first and second best 
mode of raising Locust trees, and the greatest quantity of 
ground profitably occupied therein. 

9th. For the best essay on the general use of Oxen in 
place of Horses, for agricultural operations, and of raising 
anct selecting Cattle, the most proper and profitable for beef, 
the dairy, or draught ; enumerating the desiderata in the re- 
spective kinds — a gold medal; and for the next best, one of 
silver, 

10th. For the best method of gearing oxen for work on 
farms, or travelling; and comparative experiments with oxen 
and horses — a gold medal for the best essay or course of ex- 
periments, and one of silver for the second best. 

11th. For the best methods of recovering gullied fields, 
— the like premiums. 

12th. For the best cheese, of enumerated weights — the 
greatest quantity a gold,* and a silver medal for the next men- 
tioned quality and quantity. 

* This medal was obtained by Mr. Matthewson, of Rhode Island; and his 
cheese has preserved its credit to this day, from the year 1792. If few others 
of the premiums have been claimed, the fault lies with our farmei-s; and is no 
reflection on the patriotism and public spirit of the early members of our So- 
ciety. It is with the view of calling' to the pleasing recollections of the pre- 
sent members, the laudable endeavours of their predecessors ; that the pre- 
miums and the objects of them, ai'e now brought to their notice. It is to be. 
regretted that an early attention had not been paid to the use of that valua- 
ble addition to our stock, the Mule. In hardihood, easiness of keep, longevi- 
ty, and capacity for labour, mules are highly estimable ; both on the fann and 
the road. 

Encountenng the o])inionsof the prejudiced; — Oxen have always been fa- 
vourites with mc. When they have faithfully served the farmer, they may 
be fitted for the butcher and the tanner. It is strange that yve should object 
to them as not bearing the heats of our climate ; when, in the warmest cli- 
mates, they are common ; and preferred for their capacity to endure heat. 
!n most parts oi liubj, no horse is seen in a plough; oxen being universally 



10 

As we are now taking a review of past occurrences in our 
Society; it will be appropriate to include that period of its ex- 
istence in which oitr parts have been cast — and that not 
vainly or ostentatiously, but with sober reflection. It be- 
hoves an individual to turn his mind often back to the trans- 
actions of his past life; as well to amend what is amiss, as to 
persist in commendable conduct. It is equally incumbent on 
a Society, to review its own history. 

Owing to a variety of untoward circumstances, — among 
them, the long illness and death of the worthy president, Mr. 
Boardley, and the declining zeal of members who had taken 
an active share in its affairs, — the Society became languid, and 
temporarily, for a regretted period, intermitted its accustomed 
exertions. In the year 1805, it was revived; and I was press- 
ed to fill its chair; to which I reluctantly and diffidently con- 
sented. A number of premiums were then promulgated for 
1806; and these, with a few alterations, remain. 

1. A premium of a piece of plate, valued atone hundred 
dollars, for " ascertaining the component parts of arable 
land.'''' This enters into a particular detail of the anal3'sis 
and exploration of the variety of soils, poor and rich, in any 
of the old counties of the state; so as to discover clays, 
viarles, gypsum, sand, minerals, fossils, and all substances 
whereof they are composed. The object is, to fertilize by 
a mixture of soils ; in place of expensive and often unattainable 
artificial manures. No other elucidation of the indispensable 
aid required from Science, need be given, than the bare men- 
tion of the subjects and objects of this premium. Physiology, 
Geology, Mineralogy, Chemistry, are the powerlul auxilia- 

employed. Let us not confine ourselves to any one country, for our breeders 
of stock. Our domestic animals should partake of varieties. Every day's ex- 
perience proves that animals may safely cliange locality ; and, ftoiu man to 
the lowest order, become acclimated in any country. 



11 

lies to facilitate the execution of this all important operation. 
Without their aid, mere labour, even adroitly but uninstruct- 
edly applied, is inefficient and vain. With their assistance, 
wonders may be accomplished. The geological survey , now 
in progress, at the expense of the Society, will effectually pro- 
mote their views in this premium. 

2. Trench ploughing. The mode and uses are designated, 
and a gold or silver medal is offered according to the merit 
of the candidate. A course of crops on trench-ploughed 
ground, also entitles the candidate to the like premium. Here 
the philosophy of the impregnation of soils exposed to the air 
and light ; and thus furnished with the food of plants ; comes 
into request. 

3. A silver medal, or fifty dollars, for the best cover of le- 
guminous crops, in preference to naked fallows. Scientific 
discussions on this subject will be found in the books. 

4. For the best set of experiments for the destruction of 
perennial weeds — a gold medal. To effectuate this great ob- 
ject, botanical knowledge is highly necessary. Botanizing, 
to teach how, and at what stage of their growth, to destroy 
noxious plants, is as rec[uisite, as it is to foster and promote 
valuable vegetation. 

5. A silver medal, or fifty dollars, for an account, from ac- 
tual experiment, of the profits of the best dairy; of not less 
than twenty cows. The object is to induce an attention to 
the breed and selection of dairy cows. Medical science, in- 
cluding comparative anatomy, is as necessary to the breeder 
and dairy farmer, as are a practical knowledge of stock and 
the most profitable modes of feeding them, and applying thetr 
produce judiciously. 

I give the following relation of a fact, to me unaccountable, 
^lut averred to be true by a dairy farmer, of whose credit I 



12 

have no doubt. Fiat experiineiitum — should opportunity 
occur. 

I was conversing on the uses of the Lactometer, and its 
great services in discovering the relative or positive richness, 
or poverty, in the milk of dairy cows. He said he had had a 
goodly looking cow, appearing to be a great and profitable 
milker; but no butter could be produced from her milk 
alone. He selected, urged by a sudden impulse, a good but- 
ter cow. He, merely for experiment, mixed the cream of the 
two cows, and churned the cream together. It produced as 
much butter as two profitable cows could furnish. Separately, 
no more butter was produced, than the one cow had previously 
alTorded. This he tried over and over again. We do not know 
all the arcana of nature. There may be a congeniality in the 
secretions from the lacteals of different animals of the same 
species. We know that in other secretions, such congeniality 
sometimes occurs. I have succeeded by changing the male 
or the female of sheep and cattle, as the case required ; where 
issue had failed from the intercourse of well looking breeders. 
I do not, however, pretend decisively to account for unac- 
countable things. I leave this fact, ds I received it, for the 
consideration of the learned. Every dairy woman knows the 
great amelioration and increase of butter, produced by mixing 
the milk of fresh cows, with that of those which had been 
long in milk. 

6. Live fences. A gold or silver medal, for the best expe- 
riment; according to merit. Here a scientific development 
of the nature and quality of Shrubs, would be important. 
The Hawthorn is subject to blights, and the depredations of 
insects. Entomology would teach some means of destruc- 
tion of such marauders on these and the fruit trees of our 
gardens and orchards, as well as the plants in our fields. 



IS 

The Newcastle, or Cockspur, thorn is, according to my ob- 
servation, far superior in hardihood, defensive armory, and 
duration, to any other thorn. But I prefer the Hemlock 
Spruce, which I have in vigour at 80 years old. It is easily 
propagated ; never fails of succeeding ; is not subject to blasts: 
nor is it browsed by cattle. It remains verdant through the 
winter; can be clipped at a small expense; and is of as quick 
growth, as any species of thorn. Insects never annoy it. 
Most deciduous shrubs or trees are ineligible; and subject to 
numberless casualties. 

I believe the electric fluid, has no inconsiderable share in 
the mischief accruing from blights, or blasts, on hedges and 
fruit trees. A fine pear tree was, in my early life, apparently 
saved from the blast usually annoying that species of fruit 
tree, by a pointed rod (elevated above its top), from which a 
wire led into the ground. Other trees had old horse-shoes, 
or pieces of iron hoops, hung among their branches. These 
succeeded for a time; but an overflow of the fluid often par- 
tially blasted the trees. Whether or not this was owing to 
want of points and conductors, I will not determine. In a 
field of peas, much blasted whilst in blossom, two spots were 
observed entirely unhurt. In the one an old iron mould board 
plough had been carelessly left; and in the other, an old iron 
hooped hogshead. Other causes, no doubt, operate injurious- 
ly. I suggest this as one. 

The electric and magnetic fluids have more operation in the 
movements and phenomena of nature, than is accurately 
known, or believed. We are yet only on the threshold of 
knowledge, in relation to both these awful and powerful 
agents. 

7. Clearing and cropping neiv lands. A gold medal fo' 
the best essay on the subject. 



14 

The possessors of new lands are generally the most defi- 
cient in knowledge, either practical or scientific. Their first 
operations ruin, and reduce to sterility. Their endeavours 
should be used to retain fertility; our exertions are to recover 
it. It is fortunate that agricultural societies are forming in 
the new counties. We should not only wish them well; but 
assist in all things they require. I have recently i-eceived 
flattering accounts from newly-formed societies, of their zeal 
for improvement ; accompanied by a request that we would 
advise and correspond with them. They will soon need no 
teachers, other than their own intelligence and experience. 

8. t^ Veterinary Essay and Plan. A gold medal. We 
have had from Dr. Rush, and our Vice President, Dr. Mease, 
valuable discussions on this subject. It is lamentable that no 
Veterinary Institution exists in this country. Our domes- 
tic animals are destitute of an}"- scientific aid; and are left in 
the hands, when accidents or diseases assail them, of quacks 
and impostors. Nothing would more contribute to agricultu- 
ral prosperity, than a school, or professorship, and a practical 
theatre, to teach comparative anatomy, and veterinary know- 
ledge: This is a subject well worthy the serious attention of 
the Society. Here is an extensive field for medical science, 
and its branches; essential to farmers and breeders of stock. 

9. Last, but not least, is a silver medal, for Household 
Manufactures. This is an important subject indeed ; and 
I am happy in believing our eai'ly patronage of it, has contri- 
buted to its present gratifying and extensive prosperity. 

If this detail of our endeavours to serve the interests of agri- 
culturists should be deemed tedious; it nevertheless has its 
uses. It is an expose of the engagements we have made, and 
how ill we can suffer any diminution of our funds. It is also 
an attempt, however feeble, to show how mistaken are our 



15 

farmers, when they suppose that mere practice is all sufficient. 
Farmers need not be Philosophers, or Savans, in the 
branches of science auxiliary to their occupation. But they 
should treat with respect, and profit by their lessons, those 
who promulgate principles. Their art may thus be regulated 
by system; in place of being left to the experience, as it is 
called, of uninformed, however worthy, practical men; who 
disagree, too frequently, in their practice ; and often attribute 
to superior management, what has occurred from good luck, 
and accidentally favouring circumstances. Far be it from me 
to speak slightly of practical farming, or farmers. I have en- 
deavoured, through a long life, to serve their interests, and 
promote their prosperity. I wish to eradicate their preju- 
dices; which are now, happily, fast wearing away. 

I need not recite to you the benefits derived from the exer- 
tions of our Society in obtaining the law establishing County 
Societies through our State. These Societies are multiplying; 
and I hope every county in the State will find the advantages 
of such associations. In aiding the Society in this measure, 
I failed not to portray the many important results flowing 
from such associations. Among them, was that of public ex- 
hibitions to excite emulation, and draw together the resources 
of one or more counties, in showing specimens of the best 
stock of domestic animals, agricultural implements, domestic 
manufactures, the products of farms, and all incitements to ex- 
cellence in husbandry. I gave expectations of our Society, 
with the assistance afforded by the county funds, taking upon 
them the task of displaying and encouraging such exhibitions. 
But as a late meeting of our Society have determined other- 
wise ; vvithout meaning to censure that determination indeco- 
rously; I must take the liberty to express my individual opi- 
nion, not only from long conviction, but consistently with the 



16 

assurances I gave to my friends in the legislature, who inte- 
rested themselves in introducing the clauses in the general 
law, and the supplement thereto, in relation to our Society. 
I must, therefore, in justification of myself, declare that my 
sentiments in this regard are unchanged. 

I have seen, in a public print, an extract of a letter I wrote, 
(for much correspondence is thrown upon me by my con- 
nexion with this Society) in which, in effect, I say, that " I 
deem such exhibitions more promotive of the rapid improve- 
ment of our Agriculture, in all its branches, than volumes 
written on the subject." I must presume that our local situa- 
tion alone was the objection; and that no general reflection 
was intended to be cast on such exhibitions. Yet, in and near 
the large cities of Europe; where a public exhibition and an 
agricultural society are inseparable; such displays are com- 
mon. Their novelty may, at first, excite inconvenient curio- 
sity ; which would evaporate, when repetitions rendered them 
familiar. Nothing is required but good regulations, to pre- 
vent all the alleged evils complained of. The worst symp- 
tom of insensibility to their impoi-tance is, that they are, most 
unwarrantably, considered by many, (who look only at, and 
often magnify, some much regretted and too common accompa- 
niments to public spectacles, and by no means peculiar to these 
exhibitions,) as mere ostentatious display s of rural pageantry ; 
instead of being viewed, as they are, — evidences of, and stimu- 
lants to, improvement and prosperity. All these objections 
could be obviated, by regulations our own organization war- 
rants. And by our own organization, the supplement to the 
county law authorizes us to proceed. I am persuaded that 
great good would arise, were it deemed suitable to our situa- 
tion, that all the inhabitants of our city, young and old, should 
view such exhibitions of agricultural improvement. Impros- 



17 

sions would be made, by tangible objects ; far more durable 
and striking, than the most eloquent verbal or written discus- 
sions. The solemn truth, (not sufficiently felt or regarded,) 
would be indelibly established; — that without agricultural im- 
provement, their houses would become tenantless ; their com- 
merce and their manufactures would be annihilated ; and their 
deserted streets, covered with weeds. If, however, such 
proofs of rural prosperity must be removed from their in- 
spection, in the vicinity of the city, they will be accompa- 
nied by my sincere good wishes for their success, whereso- 
ever they shall be located. 

Our city has, in the course of human vicissitudes, de- 
scended from its former rank in the national scale of com- 
merce. Wealth, enterprise, industry, and a numerous and 
highly estimable population, are yet within its bounds. 
Nothing is wanting, but a proper direction to be given to 
these sure and powerful achievers of prosperity, to raise 
it to its merited station. Let ^Agriculture, the basis of its 
commerce, manufactures, and all its useful arts, be stimu- 
lated and encouraged by the impetus afforded to ingenuity 
and labour, by the means conveyed by roads, canals, and the 
improved navigation of our numerous, capacious, and power- 
ful rivers and streams. The tillers and proprietors of our soil 
are multitudinous, intelligent, diligent, and worthy. They re- 
quire facilities to the transportation of their commodities, to 
render them, and us, eminently prosperous. Our State is ex- 
ceeded by no other, in fertility and capability for agricultural 
riches. The best portion of our tei'ritory is yet indifferently 
cultivated, or a wilderness. It may be converted into a gar- 
den, by encouraging its population, and rendering access to 
our city, safe, prompt, and certain. In the changes of fortune 
too frequently occurring in populous cities, the most cautious 

c 



18 

cannot always avoid reverses. Exertions to improve our worn 
lands, or to afford access to our forests, will furnish an asylum 
to misfortune; or open to spirited emigrants from the uncer- 
tain pursuits in a city, a scene of active and profitable employ- 
ment. And thus property hitherto unjustifiably and reproach- 
fully neglected, will be brought into almost incomputable 
value. 

The interests of our city are inseparably united with those 
of our rural fellow citizens. Let us co-operate in joint endea- 
vours for mutual benefit; and the products of our soil will 
centre in our hitherto busy and splendidly thriving Empo- 
rium. We shall then be only engaged in profitable traffic in 
our own productions; and shall not again be visited by the 
novel, mortifying, and reproachful phenomenon, of grain 
raised by the cheap labour of the serfs of northern Europe; 
and sold advantageously in our emphatically agricultural 
country. 

Among us, there are members of all professions. Let every 
one contribute to the instruction of the husbandman; on the 
products of whose labours we all subsist. In all agricultural 
countries, both ancient and modern, the genius and talents of 
the greatest and most eminent men, were devoted to enlight- 
ening and informing the tillers of the soil. Among the Greeks^ 
and Romans, their greatest generals signalized themselves in 
the fields both of Ceres and Mars; and their orators and states- 
men eulogized, promoted, and protected, the labours and pros- 
perity of the husbandman. Their poets immortalized their 
verse in rural imagery, and didactic lessons for farmers. Vir- 
gil will instruct even the agriculturist of this day. Hesiod, 
Pliny, Columella, and other writers of ancient times, yet 
live in their agricultural works. The feasts of Ceres, and 
even the orgies of Bacchus, were incitements to increase the 



19 

products of the plough, and the culture of the vine. In their 
games and amusements, and in their revels, the ancients vene- 
rated and encouraged the labours of the field; and placed 
among their deities, tutelary guardians of the cultivators of 
the earth. All these fabulous personifications, are only strong 
emblematical indications of the elevated character in which 
Agriculture was held among ancient nations. We read their 
history; recite their poetry; admire their heroes; and study 
their tactics and warlike feats. It will be more to our advan- 
tage, to partake of the enthusiasm, with which they idolized 
the first among the arts of peace. 

But modern instances can be given, for the imitation of 
every profession and calling, in our day. 

To Lawyers, Lord Kaimes is a bright example ; and, long 
before him, Fitzherbert intermitted his labours in black let- 
ter, to treat on agricultural subjects, with ability and zeal. 
And Evelyn added laiv knowledge, to his other great and sin- 
gular acquirements; displayed in his justly admired Silva, 
and his other agricultural, philosophical, and yet celebrated 
works. 

What greater benefit on our country, could the most emi- 
nent of our Physicians, Anatomists, or Surgeons, bestow, 
than by following the example of some of the celebrated pro- 
fessors of these learned occupations in Europe: and assist in 
the establishment of the all important desideratum — a Vete- 
rinary Institution? Zoological, botanical, chemical, and mi- 
neralogical information, could be plenteously afforded by me- 
dical men; who are generally well acquainted with such 
subjects. 

The most eminent Chemists, .Philosophers and Natu- 
ralists of our time, have gained merited celebrity, by pro- 
mulgating agricultural principles ; analysing the materials for 



20 

fertilizing the soil; and developing the qualities and structure 
of plants. 

Who. are more bound to assist the husbandman, than Me)'- 
chants and Manufacturers ; whose occupations so indispen- 
sably depend on the produce of his toils? 

Let not these highly respectable characters allege, that be- 
cause they are not farmers, and are residents in a city, they 
cannot enlighten and assist the husbandman; without whom 
they would have no city to inhabit! 

A Farmer led our revolutionary armies to victory. — "His 
like, 'tis true, we ne'er shall look upon again." He un- 
sheathed his sword to defend the plough, and the myriads 
sustained by its products. Our cities, subdued in succession, 
were restored from captivity, (our own among them,) by the 
patriotic assistance of Farmers ; when their inhabitants were 
either banished, disaffected, or paralyzed. Have you not 
countless obligations to return, on this account, to the de- 
scendants and successors of those departed patriots? They 
were not exclusively meritorious ; but I had the best oppor- 
tunities, both personal and official, of intimately knowing, 
that without them our efforts would have been feeble indeed, 
on many critically important occasions. 

The farmers of our State now require more advice and en- 
couragement, in the present situation of public and private 
circumstances, than heretofore. The objects of their labours 
must be varied and multiplied ; so as to be rendered suitable 
to our own, and the attitude in which the affairs of the world 
are placed. Their gains were never equal to the amount sup- 
posed; and they were acquired under the penalty inflicted, 
for wise and wholesome purposes, on our first parents, — " the 
sweat of their faces." I was born and have long lived among 
farmers; and have intimately known their concerns. The 



21 

great body of them now need every encouragement which sci- 
ence and intelligence, promulgated by those who are versed 
in literary and philosophical researches, can furnish: and it 
frequently happens that those require the most incitement and 
instruction, who deem themselves the least in want of them. 

In the lifetime of our ever venerated General Washington, 
I relieved him from much of the pressure of his agricultural 
inquiries and correspondence; and received the highest of all 
rewards — his cordial and affectionate acknowledgments. I, at 
his request, procured an accurate census and statistical account 
of the produce of farms, during a precedent period of seven 
years, in this State. The average of wheat, per acre, was 
then ten bushels and about a peck. Although the surface since 
cultivated is widely extended, and there are instances, (some 
of them I have rtiyself, occasionally, but not frequently, had,) 
of 30 to 50 bushels to the acre, yet I do not believe the ave- 
rage of acreable quantity, is now half as much greater ; though 
the aggregate, by the extent of cultivated surface, is wonder- 
fully increased ; ajid our farming is, in many parts, though 
stationary in others, highly improved. It is to ameliorate the 
style and system of farming, and not individually to serve 
the personal interests oi farmers ; beyond citizens engaged in 
other branches of labour; that I urge the attention of this and 
every other Society. When their gains were at the highest, 
'tis true, too many partook of the mania of the day ; entered 
into schemes, supported by seductive accommodations ; lived 
beyond their circumstances; and thought prosperity would 
never end. Even for this aberration, they are entitled to the 
forgiveness of their multitudinous copartners in the common 
delirium. Labourers and mechanics graduated their gains 
according to the price? of producis: and pared away apparent 
agricultural profits. 



On a calculation of interest on capital, remuneration for la- 
bour, and unavoidable expenditures — not generally deducting 
for casualties too frequently occurring — the far greater num- 
ber of even industrious farmers would, at the period I men- 
tion, have been brought in debt. Living on their own farms, 
and working them by their own personal labour, and that of 
their families, rendered them prosperous. Especially when 
the members of their household were willingly confined to the 
employments of their parents, — the daughters preferring their 
domestic fabrics, to the gewgaws of the shops; and the sons, 
contentedly attached to the labours of the field, and not se- 
duced into hazardous adventures in the lottery of commerce; 
nor encouraged to loiter in what are called the learned profes- 
sions ; in which comparatively few become either learned or 
eminent — however fortunate, dazzling, and attractive, some 
instances may be. 

For us, — let us continue our exertions to preserve the cha- 
racter, at home and abroad, we have earned by long conti- 
nued, though not always successful labours. The honourable 
rivalship excited by similar associations around us, should 
urge us to redouble our diligence. I have reminded you of 
one unfortunate slumber, — let us not sleep again. Among 
you, there are talents, intelligence, and capacity, adequate to 
all the purposes required in our institution. If we cannot ac- 
complish all the objects of our wishes, let us perform what we 
can. Nothing is wanted but a small portion of your time and 
attention, to sustain and increase the usefulness of our Society. 
Some of you, however meritoriously, afibrd more time and 
assiduity in keeping in check, and providing for, the drones 
and vicious in our community, than are required for pro- 
moting the prosperity of the worthy and industrious objects 
of our regards; and at the same time forwarding your own in- 



23 

terests and comforts A small share of your time and means, 
most worthily, but too often indiscriminately and unadvised- 
ly, ajDplied in charitable exercises of philanthropy, — which I 
am far from being disposed to censure; and even your coun- 
tenance and presence at our meetings ; — would wonderfully 
aid in encouraging, instructing and stimulating, those who 
want only a wholesome direction, to enable them to help 
themselves. If such propensities were more universal, cha- 
rity would be confined only to the helpless and meritorious; 
and pauperism would be rare. Our intelligent and worthy 
departed member, JVilUatn West, distinguished as an almost 
self-taught, and prosperous farmer, had an apothegm, in a 
great degree sound and monitory, in relation to instructions 
and excitements in Agriculture : — " He who would teach far- 
mers to help themselves, and introduce new and practical 
modes, or improvements additional to what were already but 
partially known, would do more good, than he would accom- 
plish by giving alms all the days of his life." Fanners, how- 
ever, of all others, are the least in need of alms. But, by more 
system and intelligence in farming, they would, by employ- 
ing the idle subjects of charity, prevent the necessity of un- 
duly exercising that godlike virtue. 

Our Society is capable of '' doing much good," in every 
way; and especially in co-operating, for this purpose, with 
the associations of our agricultural brethren, in this, and other 
States. For agriculturists are all members of the same family, 
wheresover sectionally resident 

In Great Britain — heretofore accounted the pattern, and 
normal school, of Agriculture — a sad and sincerely lamenta- 
ble reverse is experienced. The temptations, from their in- 
cessant wars and their ever-craving demands, to increase 
their supplies, by expending vast capital on their worst lands, 



u 

have visited them with sore distress. Insupportable taxes, 
tithes, and high rents, unknown among us; and the decay of 
agricultural profits, with consequent idle labourers; have been 
the parents of pauperism: and even peace brings no blessing 
in its train. Here, we have only, by exertion and skill, to 
renovate our old farms, and, without unreasonable application 
of capital, to bring into productiveness our best lands, yet un- 
occupied. They will place in ease and abundance, not only 
a great portion of our present numbers ; but also the additional 
increase of population, by generations yet unborn. We of 
the present day, owe to ourselves and our posterity, all our 
exertions, to establish principles and approved practice in 
Agriculture; and facilities to convey its products to markets. 
We shall thus entitle ourselves to the blessings of the present 
and future generations ; who will honour us in the enjoyment 
of the tangible proofs they will experience — that we did not 
live for ourselves alone. 

Our locality in a great commercial city, gives to our So- 
ciet}'^ opportunities of adding to our domestic stores; and 
communicating the productions and information of the o/</, 
and distant parts of the new, world. Our foreign correspond- 
ence is respectable; and many advantages may be derived 
from it. Even a few of you taking a constant interest and a 
meritorious pride in our affairs ; not interrupted by frequent 
listlessness and mere occasional and cold attention, but enlist- 
ing them as the agreeable amusement of your leisure, — often 
less usefully, however innocently, occupied, — will sustain the 
character and continue the beneficialness of our Society. Most 
of you are in the vigour of your faculties, and capacities for 
corporeal and mental exertion. I have long witnessed the re- 
sult of such exertions. Approaching to the close of my hum- 
ble endeavours, I can only rely on the zeal which should ani- 



25 

mate your perseverance, and participate in the enjoyment of 
the labours you are capable of performing. 

You will always have my best and heartfelt wishes, and 
every assistance I can afford. 

I must apologize for thus detaining you in an attempt to 
preserve, as beneficially as I am capable of, our annual custom 
of addressing you with sincere congratulations on the com- 
mencement of another year for the exercise of our labours, in 
a new and auspicious era of agricultural zeal and intelligence. 
We have passed through many unpromising periods, without 
the satisfaction we now enjoy. A general spread of enlight- 
ened conviction pervades our Union, that Agriculture neces- 
sarily and justly claims the support of every friend to our 
country, as the basis of the public safety and prosperity. 

My ardent desire that the Society should continue in the 
ways of well doing, and my respect for their request, have 
alone induced me to occupy so much of your time ; — if un- 
profitably, my motives must furnish my excuse. 



